Hole No. 12, the signature hole of the newly rebranded Sono Felice Country Club Guam Mangilao.
Photo courtesy of Sono Felice Country Club
HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — Korea’s largest hotel and resort company, the Sono Hospitality Group, acquired the Onward Mangilao Golf Course on March 1 in what may be a perfect example of “opportunity meets demand,” where the desire for a product aligns with the ability to provide it, Sono announced in a press release.
The company is in the process of rebranding the course as the Sono Felice Country Club Guam Mangilao, alongside the former Onward Talofofo golf course, also recently acquired, which is now the Sono Felice Country Club Guam Talofofo.
The Sono group has also acquired Korean air carrier T’Way Air, with plans to “solidify its position in the aviation industry.”
“T’way Air, previously a low-cost carrier focusing on short-haul routes, is expanding its operations to include medium and long-haul routes,” SHG said, “the expansion is expected to strengthen Sono Group’s competitiveness in the global market.
“The acquisition of T’Way Air also creates synergy with the golf segment, enhancing accessibility for golf enthusiasts traveling to Guam from various regions,” the company added.
Golf has become one of the most popular sports in Korea, creating huge potential for an influx of golf-minded visitors to Guam, the company said.
Sono boasts a massive membership base and plans to actively promote the golf courses through its extensive marketing channels, said Frank Cho, the new general manager of the Sono Felice golf clubs on Guam.
This multifaceted approach aims to engage potential customers and raise awareness of the newly rebranded golf courses, Cho added.
As an example, Cho said the golf courses will leverage their presence on Kakao Talk, the most popular messaging app in South Korea, to communicate directly with millions of customers to share updates, promotions and other content.
He said he is currently focused on the transition and ensuring first that employees are comfortable, then he would work to improve on the cleanliness and safety of the facilities.
“We know how important it is to work closely with the local community and we are committed to job security for our current employees and we want to contribute to Guam’s tourism industry,” Cho said.
He added that the company wants to establish the best golf destination in Guam, “and we’re excited to grow with our local community,” he said.
Cho said the Sono company is renowned for its premium resorts and corporate experience.
The Mangilao course has been advertised for years as one of the top 100 golf courses in Asia and boasts spectacular oceanside views, as well as the signature Hole No. 12, which is a par 3 over the water.
“Before I came here I didn’t know how beautiful it is,” Cho said.
“We will do our best to offer the best experience to our customers in the future, ensuring that they can enjoy the stunning golf course with the best views,” Cho added.
